I have medication at home for me. Can’t I give that to my dog or cat?
The answer is usually NO!
There are many human medications which are toxic to dogs and cats. Yes, some medications can be given to people and pets. Usually there is a difference in the strength or dosing of the medication. However there are many medications that, although they may be safe for people, can be poisonous to pets.
Anti-Inflammatory and pain medications are probably the number one human medication intentionally given to pets.
- Aspirin can cause stomach ulcers and gastrointestinal upset. Aspirin also thins the blood, which could be dangerous if your pet is undergoing surgery or seriously injures himself.
- Acetaminophen (Tylenol, Excedrin), Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), Naproxen (Aleve) are all poisonous to pets. They are unable to metabolize these medications resulting in liver and kidney failure.
Please do NOT give your pet human anti-inflammatory or pain medications. It is not worth the risk of potentially harming you beloved pet.
We are often asked if a pet can receive an owner’s antibiotic medication. After all, an antibiotic is an antibiotic, right?
Wrong!
Antibiotics are divided into different classes depending on what types of bacteria they treat. Different infections require different antibiotics. Giving just any antibiotic may not treat the infection. Antibiotics are also not without side effects, as with any medication. Why take the risk? You may just end up at the vet for antibiotics anyways.
Usually when pets are poisoned by human medications, it’s done so by accident. Pills fall on the floor, or bottles are left out on the counter, and these become easy targets for out curious pets. Many of these medications can cause liver damage, kidney damage, or heart problems.
Always make sure to store all medications out of your pet’s reach. This applies to your pet’s medications also! Many pet medications are flavored to make them more palatable, so who wouldn’t want more?! However, eating an entire bottle of flavored NSAID’s or liver supplements can result in organ damage.
Another way pets sometimes become poisoned with medications is when owners lay out their medications as well as their pets. Everyone take their medications at the same time. But what if the owner accidentally gives his medications to the dog? Never lay out human and pet medications at the same time. It’s not worth the risk! Take yours, then prepare your pet’s medications.
Never give your pet a medication without first talking to your veterinarian! Trying to save a few dollars and a visit to the vet may result in a more serious, possibly life-threatening condition and a trip to the emergency vet!
If you suspect your pet may have ingested medication, or overdosed on their own medication, please call the ASPCA Poison Control at 1-888-426-4435 or the Pet Poison Hotline at 1-800-213-6680. Always have the bottle of medication and your pet’s weight when you call.